Sitting atop the Berkeley Hills, the drive and stunning Bay
view are almost alone worth the price of admission (if it’s not foggy). You’ll
drive through University of California at Berkeley’s campus and the football
stadium, snaking uphill until you get to the top. First stop: climbing on the
giant strand of DNA sculpture outside the museum, or off the slippery stone
whale. Go for it – and enjoy the view. Through September 1, little
entomologists will love the temporary bug exhibit, complete with an enormous
tarantula on the building’s exterior. Also inside are a planetarium, a hands-on
biology lab, a KidsLab for those in kindergarten and younger, and other fun
activities.

This downtown San Jose museum is a family favorite. Plus
they have one day a month when you can get in for free! Whether watching the
IMAX movie, riding a simulated bobsled, or creating your own robot movements,
the adults will have just as much fun as the kids. The multi-story museum has
plenty of up-to-date interactive exhibits that teach science and technology
without boring anyone. Their Reboot Music exhibit, about making music in the
digital age, goes through August 17. You can have spontaneous jam sessions with
other museum-goers with their mutli-player ConnecTable or try a laser harp,
where you pluck the air and make music.

You can’t mention science museum without mentioning the
Exploratorium. This newly renovated (and moved) museum is now on Pier 17,
between Fisherman’s Wharf and the Ferry Building (read our review here). They’ve added a ton of space
and some outdoor attractions too. This museum makes science fun for kids, since
almost everything is interactive. And there’s the famous water fountain coming
out of a toilet, one that pleases the kids and grosses out the parents. Don’t
miss the (new) clock near the Tinkering Lab, as it gets close to striking the
hour.

Tons to see at the Academy, with a planetarium,
giant rainforest dome, aquarium and other exhibits like earthquakes and skulls. (Read our review here). The rooftop is living, so don’t miss it. See how grass and food can be grown on
the roof! The Academy runs behind-the-scenes tours, plus occasional sleepovers,
as well as a fun Halloween bash. If you need a break, their café offers
healthful and organic options, and you can take a break, playing outside in the
grass before heading back inside if you’re ready for more exploring.